Change Alexa's Accent in Settings
You can change Alexa's accent through the Alexa app on your phone or through the web version at alexa.amazon.com. The accent options available depend on which language you have set. If you use English, you can choose between US English, British English, Australian English, and Indian English — each with its own regional accent and pronunciation patterns.
Open the Alexa app and tap the Devices icon at the bottom right. Select Echo & Alexa, then choose the specific device you want to adjust. Tap Settings (the gear icon), then scroll down and select Language. You will see a list of available languages and accents for that language. Tap the one you want, and Alexa will switch when ready.
If you are using the web version, sign in to your Amazon account, go to Devices in the top left, select your Echo device, and look for Language under the device settings. The process is the same — select your preferred accent and save.
Key Takeaways
- Alexa's accent changes are made through the Alexa app or alexa.amazon.com under the Language setting for each device.
- English offers four accent choices: US, British, Australian, and Indian, each with distinct pronunciation and speech patterns.
- The accent you choose applies to all responses from that device, including weather, news, and smart home commands.
- Changing the accent does not affect the device's ability to understand your commands in your local accent or dialect.
What Happens When You Change the Accent
When you select a new accent, Alexa's voice changes for all future responses on that device. This includes weather reports, news briefings, smart home confirmations, and answers to questions. The change takes effect when ready — you do not need to restart the device or wait for an update.
The accent change is specific to that one device. If you have multiple Echo devices in your home, each one keeps its own accent setting. You can set your kitchen Echo to British English and your bedroom Echo to Australian English without affecting each other.
Changing Both Language and Accent
If you want to use a language other than English, the process is the same, but your accent options will be limited to what Amazon offers for that language. For example, Spanish has options for Spain Spanish and Mexico Spanish. German offers both standard German and Austrian German accents.
When you change the language, Alexa's responses will be in that language, and it will also understand commands spoken in that language. However, Alexa can only understand one language at a time per device. If you speak multiple languages at home, you may want to set up a routine or use a different device for each language.
Troubleshooting Accent Changes That Do Not Stick
If you change the accent but Alexa reverts to the previous one, first check that you saved the change. In the app, make sure you tapped the accent option fully and waited for the confirmation. If the setting keeps reverting, try closing the Alexa app completely and reopening it, then make the change again.
If the problem continues, restart your Echo device by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Once it reconnects to your Wi-Fi (the light ring will turn blue), go back into settings and select your accent again. This usually resolves any sync issues between the app and the device.
Why Alexa Might Not Have Your Preferred Accent
Not all accents are available in all regions or for all languages. Amazon adds new accents over time, but the selection varies by country and language. If you do not see the accent you want, it may not yet be available for your language or region.
You can check Amazon's Alexa support pages for a current list of available accents by language, though the fastest way is to open the Language setting in your device and see what options appear. If your preferred accent is not listed, you can leave feedback through the Alexa app by going to More (three lines), then Help & Feedback, and selecting Send Feedback.
Accents Available for Each English Variant
Each English accent sounds noticeably different in word stress, vowel pronunciation, and speech rhythm. US English is the default for most devices sold in North America. British English uses Received Pronunciation, the accent associated with formal British speech. Australian English has the characteristic vowel shifts and intonation of Australian speakers. Indian English reflects the speech patterns and rhythm of English as spoken in India.
You can test each accent by asking Alexa a straightforward question like "What time is it?" or "Tell me a joke." This gives you a sense of how the accent sounds before you commit to using it as your default.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the accent on just one Echo device if I have multiple devices?
Yes. Each device has its own language and accent setting. Open the Alexa app, go to Devices, select the specific Echo you want to change, and adjust the Language setting for that device only. Other devices will keep their current accents.
Does changing Alexa's accent affect how well it understands me?
No. The accent is only how Alexa speaks to you. Its ability to understand your commands is separate and is not affected by which accent you choose. You can speak in your own accent and dialect regardless of which accent Alexa uses to respond.
What if I want Alexa to speak in a language I do not speak?
You can change the language and accent to any option available, but Alexa will then respond in that language. It will also expect commands in that language. If you want to use a different language occasionally, consider setting up a routine or using a second device dedicated to that language.
Can I change Alexa's voice pitch or speed along with the accent?
The accent setting controls the regional voice only. Amazon does not currently offer separate controls for pitch or speaking speed. The accent you choose comes with its own natural speech patterns, which you cannot customize further.
How often does Amazon add new accents?
Amazon adds new accents periodically, but there is no set schedule. New accents are rolled out gradually by region and language. If you see a new accent option appear in your Language settings, it means it has been made available for your device and region.